We’ve got so much love for this vibrant, authentic Italian restaurant at the heart of Northampton, where you’ll find owner Davide Occhiuzzi’s freshly made pasta (no dried stuff from the cupboard here, thanks, he’s trained at Michelin starred establishments dontcha know), homemade breads and an extensive list of handpicked Italian wines.  Stop by for coffee, panini, early evening aperitifs and stylish dining.

The menu is simple but sensational (they’re embodying the ‘do one thing well’ mantra to a T) and utterly mouth-watering, inspired by Davide’s home region of Abruzzo. Think Spaghetti Carbonara with fresh truffles; Stuffed Pappardella with ricotta and mushrooms or Fettuccine with mutton ragu. There’s antipasti and dolce too: the tiramisu and millefoglie are chefs kiss. La Trattoria is exactly the kind of relaxed, family style restaurant I’m always moaning we don’t have enough of in the UK and it’s a mic drop moment from Davide. We’re talking top quality ingredients with an authentic, rustic vibe.

You can book the restaurant for private events – the centre of town location, tucked away on a quiet mews street, makes it the perfect party place – or settle in for a relaxed aperitivo and quiet, sophisticated dining.